(State Capitol, Madison) . . . State Senator Sheila Harsdorf (R-River Falls) has been reappointed to the State Legislature’s budget-writing committee as part of committee appointments recently announced by State Senate leadership.The committee assignments were made as the Legislature prepares for the upcoming two-year legislative session that begins in January.

“I look forward to continuing our state’s progress from last session in returning fiscal responsibility to state government and encouraging job growth and economic development,” said Harsdorf.“I am pleased to be reappointed to the finance committee and to provide a voice for western Wisconsin as the state budget is considered.”

Senator Harsdorf will also continue to lead on higher education issues through her appointment as chair of the Senate Committee on Universities and Technical Colleges.The 10th Senate District includes UW-River Falls and UW-Stout, as well as campuses for both the Wisconsin Indianhead and Chippewa Valley Technical Colleges.

“One of the top concerns raised by small businesses and job creators in our area is a need for skilled workers,” stated Harsdorf.“As chair of the Committee on Universities and Technical Colleges, I look forward to ongoing input from employers on preparing our state’s workforce, as well as facilitating discussion on the affordability and accessibility of our colleges and universities.”

Harsdorf was also appointed to serve on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Small Business, and Tourism and the Senate Committee on Energy, Consumer Protection, and Government Reform.

“Small businesses, agriculture, and tourism are vital economic drivers in our region,” Harsdorf continued.“Given the need to focus on policies that encourage job growth, I am pleased with these committee assignments that will enable me to bring attention to the economy in our rural areas and smaller communities.”

Harsdorf was also tapped to co-chair the Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology and serves as the State Senate’s commissioner for the Midwestern Higher Education Compact.